Post Doctoral.Post Doctoral.Associate

About the Role

The Benam Lab at the University of Pittsburgh Departments of Medicine and Bioengineering is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Associate to join an interdisciplinary research program. The program focuses on developing and applying advanced human-relevant in vitro models to study vascular biology, extracellular matrix (ECM) dynamics, and multicellular tissue interactions. This position emphasizes the use of microphysiological systems to model human microvascular structure and function within physiologically relevant three-dimensional microenvironments, with a particular focus on endothelial–stromal interactions, matrix remodeling, and tissue-level responses under dynamic conditions.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute experimental studies using advanced in vitro microvascular and tissue-engineered systems, including endothelial and stromal cell components
• Establish and maintain multicellular cultures within three-dimensional microenvironments to investigate vascular function and ECM remodeling
• Perform and optimize assays to evaluate vascular integrity, permeability, inflammatory signaling, and matrix-related processes
• Contribute to development and refinement of experimental workflows, including matrix composition, cell seeding strategies, and system reproducibility
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to integrate microvascular data with complementary model systems and analytical platforms
• Maintain accurate and detailed documentation of experimental procedures and results
• Analyze and interpret data, and contribute to preparation of manuscripts, reports, and grant applications
• Mentor trainees and assist in training of laboratory personnel as needed

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering, Vascular Biology, Cell Biology, or a related field
• Experience with primary human endothelial and stromal cell culture and/or multicellular in vitro systems
• Background in extracellular matrix biology, tissue remodeling, or microenvironmental regulation
• Strong experimental design, analytical, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment
• Strong written and verbal communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with three-dimensional culture systems or Organs-on-Chips
• Familiarity with assays for vascular permeability, matrix remodeling, or mechanobiology
• Experience with imaging-based, biophysical, or quantitative molecular analyses
• Experience working in interdisciplinary teams integrating biology and engineering